The remains of a moated manor in Chislehurst are set to open to the public for tours this weekend.
As part of Heritage Open Days this month, Scadbury Manor located within Chislehurst’s Scadbury Park will be open this weekend from September 14 – September 15.
During the weekend visitors will be able to explore the site of this historic manor dating back to the 13th century.
Scadbury Manor was first established in 1200, passing through the hands of 5 families beginning with the wealthy de Scathebury family in the 13th century.
The site is all that remains of the manor, that would have formerly been an impressive timber-framed structure with a moat and two fish ponds, and it has been recognised as an “Ancient Monument”.
Now owned by Bromley Council, the site has become a place of archaeological research conducted by the Orpington and District Archaeological Society (ODAS) since 1982.
The site was placed under the English Heritage ‘At Risk’ register in 2014 and in 2021 the site underwent a £151,000 repair project for urgent repair work to protect some of the manor’s most vulnerable areas.
During the open days visitors can take a self-guided trail around the moated manor site, seeing the archaeological excavations by ODAS of the foundations of the Tudor kitchens and great hall when it was owned by the Walsingham family.
During the event visitors will be able to see examples of the work including repairs to the drawbridge pit and south retaining walls.
Visitors can also see the World War II defences along with the restored shepherd’s hut on the site.
The site will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday this weekend from 2pm to 5pm with free entry and no booking required.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: “This exciting and expanded programme provides a great opportunity for residents and visitors to explore and find some of the hidden gems and architectural treasure that Bromley has on offer. I am proud to see our support for Open House Festival going from strength to strength each year, with thanks to our partners for their support across the borough.”
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